Loose Wet
- Hochgebirge
- Waldgrenze
- Unterhalb der Waldgrenze
- Wahrscheinlichkeit
- Possible
- Größe
- 1–2
Although overnight radiation re-crystallation (where the snowpack releases energy and surface conditions re-freeze under clear overnight skies) will have taken place... the bottom line is that most of the forecast zone at mid to lower elevations did not see freezing temperatures throughout last night. Additionally, today is slated to be even warmer than previously this week with continued intense solar input. It will be a good idea to be continuously observant from the very start today checking snow surfaces (pole probing, hand pits) for depth and scope of how much surface freeze took place last night. Getting an early start and timing on slope to reduce wet loose hazard and achieve good riding conditions will be key! The focal point of increasing hazard will be in the afternoons on E-S-W aspects as snow becomes less stable at the height of warming, but also be coginizant of potential isothermal snow on NE-N-NW aspects at the lower elevations due to our lack of overnight freeze. The northern part of the forecast zone still has plenty of snow on solar aspect at the lower elevations while the southerly area is mostly devoid of snow on south aspects at the lowest elevations. Be particularly mindful of rocky terrain that absorbs more heat and additionally within heavier tree’d zones that stay warmer overnight. Be aware of these lower elevation zones, even if it’s not your main objective… perhaps you have to exit out through suspect areas in the later part of the day or ride beneath them. Plan accordingly to minimize exposure and increase your margins, not just for wet-loose concerns, but potential injury inducing unsupportable and punchy snow down low.